Sriracha-Banbung
“The 2014 season will see a different Sriracha FC and it’s heartbreaking for any supporter who has followed the club for years. All the players and coaches had to move to Pattaya United following a decision by the big-wigs of Chonburi FC. Seeing a player like Diego, who has been in service for the club for so many years and capped over 100 times for Sriracha, to play in different colours just hurts. But they all are professionals and have to do a job and fulfil contracts. “Not enough that all players and staff had to move, the side also got renamed to ‘Sriracha-Banbung’ and will have to play at Chonburi’s IPE Stadium. On top of that the squad is made up of under-17 academy players from Chonburi. Although the youngsters did well in their opening game, a 3-1 defeat away to Saraburi, I have no feelings left. How can I? The side is not even playing at the place I call my ‘home away from home’ anymore. “The youngsters will gain a lot of experience during the season, but surely will get relegated. And that is my only hope! With them relegated it could open the chance to have the side back under its old name and back in the town of Sriracha in 2015. “Playing in the Regional League – I wouldn’t care. I just want to have my club back – the weekends I spent with other fans, having some beers, fun and cheering our team which represents our ‘home.’” Sven Beyrich
Chonburi FC “WITH a new man at the helm, Chonburi’s 2014 campaign promises to be an interesting one. Japanese coach Masahiro Wada took over from Witthaya Laohkul in the close season and has brought with him a strong sense of optimism. “Things had gone a little stale under the former Thailand national boss but the 49 year old’s appointment has been like a breath of fresh air throughout the club. He seems to go about his business in a quiet, effective way and already appears to have the respect of the players. The fans too give the impression of being a lot more confident and relaxed than in recent years. “However, a note of caution must be added to this current feeling of bonhomie. The Sharks’ biggest concern will be the lack of depth in the squad. Only six new players arrived during the transfer window, while eighteen exited – either on loan or via permanent transfers. This leaves the current playing roster looking paper thin. Injuries to one or two key personnel could lead to selection problems as the season progresses. “Hopefully, funds will be made available for Wada-san to strengthen when the window reopens at the midway stage and that we are still in a position to challenge for one of the major domestic honours that have eluded us since 2010.” Dale Farrington, Webmaster: www.clubwebsite.co.uk/chonburifc
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